The Evolution of E-Commerce, Its Impact on Supply Chain Innovations, and Significance in the Pandemic Era and Beyond

Abstract

Commerce, evolving from primitive barter systems to sophisticated global networks, has embraced the digital age, ushering in an era of e-commerce where individuals and businesses across the globe interact and transact in a virtual marketplace. This transformation has not only revolutionized how consumers purchase goods and services but has also led to innovative changes in supply chain mechanisms. The agility and resilience of supply chains have been tested and improved, with e-commerce driving advancements in logistics, inventory management, and delivery systems to meet the demands of a 24/7 global marketplace. This chapter aims to highlight the rise of the e-commerce sector, outline its broad framework, assess its critical role during the pandemic, and evaluate its current standing and implications for supply chain innovations post-pandemic.